How to Nail Your Writing Interview

So you want to get that professional writing job. Maybe you have 10 years of experience, maybe you have none. It doesn’t always matter. At Wix, we get to meet a lot of talented writers. Here are some top tips from the people who interview writers at Wix.

Do your homework

If you want to impress, you need to come prepared. I know, I know – it takes time, but no one ever said applying for jobs was easy.

So, how do you do that? If you can, try the product or service. Go to the company’s website and read as much as you can. Be sure to check out the About page — it’s a great way to get a feel for the company’s personality. Sign up for an account, subscribe to the blog if they have one, read the emails you get. Explore their Facebook and YouTube channel. Really whatever you can do to get to know them better.

When you’re applying to be a writer, it’s important you see how the company writes. Jot down a few words to describe their tone of voice. Notice if they’re more formal or pretty casual. See what you like, and what you like less. Coming to the table prepared will help you have a more meaningful and interesting conversation.

Aviva Mandell, Head of Marketing Content (English)

Be authentic

Don’t be afraid to show your quirky side. We love weird! For example, when I interviewed Brian, our Korean writer, I immediately knew I liked him. After a great chat about content, he said something like “Oops, my wife told me I shouldn’t talk about our kids. It’s not professional – but I can’t help it. I just love them so much!”

It was personable, sincere, and honestly? It was super cute. It showed me he’s confident in himself – and a little goofy. That’s what makes him fun. I knew he’d be a natural fit for our team.

If it feels right, tell personal stories or give real life examples of what you’ve experienced. Not only is this a great way to show off what you’ve done in the past, but it can also create a real connection between you and the interviewer.

Nora Ginio, Head of Content Writing

Apply because you love the position, not just the company

Apply for the job you really want. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve heard, “Writing’s okay, but what I really want is to get in the door.” Trust me, it’s not flattering. Interviewers are looking for a mutual fit, and we take our role in picking the right people seriously. After all, we’re at work for most of our waking hours. We want to have fun doing what we love with people who love what they’re doing too.

Daniel Zafer, Head of UX Text

Don’t be sour about your current job (even if it’s justified)

It can be tempting. You’re getting along great with your interviewer, having an honest chat – but don’t make this mistake! An interviewer can’t possibly know the whole story. It’s hard to tell what’s justified and what’s unfair. Either way, the interviewer wants to hire the most competent person – with a good attitude.

And remember, your interview is about YOU – not your boss.

Debbie Piha, Head of Marketing Content (Languages)

Know the company’s competitors

If you really want to impress your interviewer, do a little digging into the industry they operate in, and their competitors. A quick Google search on competitors can really help you stand out. This shows you have a deeper understanding of the industry and how companies within it work, while highlighting your research skills. It can really give you an edge.

Interviewees who come prepared with comparisons of where we excel and where we can improve, as compared to our competitors, really impress us. That being said, don’t let it get offensive — we’re looking to understand your thinking, not get a detailed breakdown of everything you think we’re doing wrong.

Na’ama Oren, Content Manager

Ask questions – the right ones

It’s okay to not know things. And when you’re not sure, ask questions. This shows that you’re interested and engaged. Just be careful not to ask anything that you could find out on Google.

Here’s a great tip. Before the interview, think of a few questions you’d like to ask. Feel free to write them down. We won’t mind if you pull out a short list. It shows that you’re detail-oriented and took the time to prepare. It’s also important, however, to think about who the interviewer will be.

Here’s a true story. When I applied to Wix, I had an interview with Omer Shai, Wix CMO. When he asked me if I had any questions, I started to sweat. “What types of tasks will I get?” I asked. “Wrong question for me,” he said.

Luckily, someone came in to talk to him and I had a moment to reconsider. I quickly asked, “What’s Wix’s TV and radio strategy for 2013 looking like?” “That’s better,” he said.

Aviva Mandell, Head of Marketing Content (English)

Last thing to keep in mind is that you’re meeting a real person — who is really hoping that you’re a fit for the job. So, keep an open mind, stay authentic and show you’re prepared. The interviewer wants you to succeed just as much as you do.

By Aviva Mandell

Head of Marketing Content (English)

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